Tennessee Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Attorney

Quick Summary

• If you are in Tennessee and experiencing severe tooth decay due to Suboxone use, this article offers detailed information on the Tennessee Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, including the latest updates and eligibility criteria. We will also cover various aspects of the Suboxone lawsuit, including tooth decay issues.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Suboxone, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to help. With a strong reputation in representing plaintiffs, our focus is on securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by streamlining the process for you. Our proven track record in handling similar claims makes them a reliable partner throughout your legal journey.

Our team of experienced attorneys at S&C can assist you in navigating your Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit by offering the following:

• In-depth understanding of Suboxone litigation and evidence gathering.
• Personalized legal services tailored to your specific situation.
• Free consultations will help determine your eligibility and outline the next steps.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Overview

Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits have become a significant legal issue, with many individuals filing claims due to severe dental injuries linked to the drug. Suboxone, manufactured by Indivior Inc., was first approved by the FDA in 2002 to combat opioid addiction and treat chronic pain.

It has played a crucial role in addressing the opioid epidemic, which has caused a dramatic increase in drug overdose deaths. Despite its benefits, Suboxone has been linked to severe dental issues, leading to numerous lawsuits.

Plaintiffs in these cases argue that the drug causes:

• tooth decay
• oral infections
• cavities
• tooth loss

They believe that the pharmaceutical company should be held responsible for failing to warn about these risks. The lawsuits claim that the acidic nature of Suboxone, particularly in its sublingual film form, erodes tooth enamel and makes teeth more susceptible to decay.

The Suboxone tooth decay litigation has gained traction in various states, including Tennessee, where product liability lawsuits have been filed due to severe dental injuries.

These lawsuits highlight the significant dental risks associated with the use of Suboxone, especially when the drug is administered as a sublingual strip. As more people come forward with their stories, the number of Suboxone tooth decay claims continues to grow.

What Is Suboxone?

According to EMA, Suboxone is a medication used primarily to treat opioid addiction, serving as a crucial component of opioid addiction treatment. It helps individuals overcome their addiction by stopping cravings and preventing the high associated with dangerous opioids [1].

Suboxone contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Together, these ingredients satisfy the brain’s opioid receptors without fully activating them, thereby muting the effects of opioids and helping to manage withdrawal symptoms.

While Suboxone is effective in treating opioid addiction, it has been reported to cause significant dental issues. The method of administration, particularly the sublingual film form, and the acidic compounds released into the mouth can erode tooth enamel over time.

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is an oral film prescribed to treat dependence on opioid drugs. It works to reduce withdrawal symptoms when stopping opioids and for an extended period of time afterward – Victor Nguyen, PharmD, MBA, Licensed Pharmacist and Associate Director – Medical Communications at Wesley Enterprise, Inc.

Suboxone Side Effects and Symptoms

Besides its link to dental issues, Suboxone can cause a range of side effects and symptoms. These side effects can impact different systems of the body and vary in severity among users.

For those taking Suboxone and contemplating legal action due to harmful effects, it’s imperative to understand these potential side effects.

According to MedicalNewsToday, long-term use of Suboxone has been associated with the following side effects [2]:

• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Decreased ability to concentrate
• Damage to the heart and circulatory system, leading to cardiovascular issues
• Respiratory system damage, especially with prolonged use of the medication

These side effects highlight the importance of monitoring one’s health while using Suboxone and seeking medical advice if any adverse symptoms arise.

Common Dental Problems Linked to Suboxone

Suboxone users have reported a range of dental problems, with tooth decay being one of the most common issues.

According to the FDA, the dental problems associated with Suboxone use include [3]:

• Cavities
• Gum Disease
• Dry Mouth
• Tooth Sensitivity

Suboxone users should maintain good oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly to prevent and address dental issues.

Gum disease is another prevalent problem linked to Suboxone use, which is often prescribed for opioid use disorder. Oral infections can lead to:

• inflammation
• periodontal disease, affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth
• severe dental issues such as tooth decay, tooth loss, and other dental injuries

These common dental problems highlight the need for good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups for individuals taking Suboxone. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential dental risks before starting the medication.

FDA Warnings Regarding Suboxone

The FDA has issued several warnings regarding the dental risks associated with prescription Suboxone film. In January 2022, the FDA highlighted the risk of severe dental problems, such as tooth loss and decay, associated with buprenorphine medications like Suboxone.

This warning came a decade after the introduction of the sublingual film, emphasizing the delayed recognition of these significant dental risks.

In response to these warnings, the FDA required Indivior to update the Suboxone warning label to include information about tooth decay risks. This update, implemented in June 2022, was aimed at informing users about the potential dental issues linked to Suboxone use.

The warning labels now include information about severe tooth decay, dental infections, and other oral health problems.

These FDA warnings emphasize the significance of understanding Suboxone’s dental risks and underscore the necessity for users to adopt preventive measures and regular dental care to reduce these risks.

How Do You Qualify for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, you must have experienced severe dental health issues due to Suboxone use. Individuals who have been prescribed Suboxone and have suffered severe tooth decay or other dental injuries, as a result, are eligible for the program.

This program assists those who have experienced dental issues due to their medication. Possessing comprehensive medical and dental records that document the correlation between tooth decay progression and Suboxone use is vital.

The Status Of The Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in Tennessee

The status of Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits in Tennessee is continually evolving. As of May 2024, 205 lawsuits are pending in the Northern District of Ohio MDL.

This multidistrict litigation (MDL) was established to streamline the handling of cases with common allegations about Suboxone causing severe dental problems.

The consolidation into an MDL allows for more efficient case processing, which can benefit plaintiffs in Tennessee and other states.

Recent developments in federal suboxone lawsuits include the filing of a master complaint in June 2024, listing over 10,000 plaintiffs. This significant step highlights the growing number of individuals affected by Suboxone-related dental issues.

Additionally, a federal judge denied Indivior’s motion for bifurcation, allowing both general and specific causation to proceed in parallel. This decision is crucial for the plaintiffs, as it enables a more comprehensive examination of the evidence.

Recent Developments in Suboxone Litigation

Recent developments in Suboxone litigation have been significant. As of May 2024, there are 205 pending cases in the multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Ohio.

This MDL aims to consolidate cases with similar allegations, making the litigation process more efficient for both plaintiffs and the court system.

In July 2024, Judge Calabrese ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, allowing the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit to proceed with full discovery. This ruling denied the defense’s request to split the case into phases, ensuring that both general and specific causation would be addressed simultaneously. This decision is expected to expedite the litigation process and bring plaintiffs closer to a resolution.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Tennessee

Potential settlement amounts for Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits in Tennessee can vary widely. Successful lawsuits could result in settlement payouts ranging from $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the severity of the dental injuries and the specifics of each case.

These settlements aim to compensate plaintiffs for the extensive dental treatments and related costs they have incurred due to Suboxone use.

Tennessee may have a longer statute of limitations for filing Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits, providing plaintiffs with more time to prepare their cases. This extended timeframe can be advantageous for gathering evidence and building a strong lawsuit.

Additionally, punitive damages could significantly increase the settlement amounts if the court finds that Indivior acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Filing a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in Tennessee

Filing a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Tennessee requires gathering evidence, such as medical and dental records, to link Suboxone use to dental injuries. Consulting an experienced attorney helps ensure all documentation is properly organized.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

Filing a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Tennessee involves several legal strategies and challenges.

Key points include:

• Failure to Inform: Plaintiffs argue that the defendants knew about the risk of severe tooth decay but failed to inform patients and doctors. This forms the basis of many product liability claims and requires substantial evidence.
• Electronic Discovery (ESI) Disputes: Handling and producing electronic documents can be complex and time-consuming. These disputes are common in such cases.
• Statute of Limitations: Defendants may argue that the statute of limitations has passed if plaintiffs do not file timely. Plaintiffs must act swiftly and ensure their claims are filed within legal deadlines.
• Burden of Proof: Plaintiffs must prove both general causation (Suboxone can cause dental issues) and specific causation (Suboxone caused their specific dental problems). This requires expert testimonies and comprehensive evidence.

Working closely with experienced attorneys can help plaintiffs develop effective legal strategies and overcome these challenges.

Types of Evidence To Present

To support a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, plaintiffs need to present various types of evidence.

Critical evidence includes:

• Comprehensive Dental Records: These should show the progression of decay that correlates with the period of Suboxone use. They provide a detailed account of the dental issues experienced and their link to Suboxone.
• Photographic Evidence: Images showing the condition of teeth before and after Suboxone use can be crucial in supporting the claim.
• X-ray Images: These can provide visual proof of the dental damage caused by Suboxone.
• Expert Testimonies: Medical experts can offer scientific explanations for how Suboxone causes tooth decay and the extent of the damage.
• Proof of Prescription: Detailed prescription records that confirm the use of Suboxone as prescribed by a physician are essential.

Gathering and presenting this evidence in a well-organized manner can significantly enhance the chances of a successful lawsuit.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in Tennessee?

The statute of limitations for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Tennessee is generally two years for product liability cases.

This means that potential plaintiffs must file their Suboxone teeth lawsuits within two years from the date they discovered or should have discovered the injury caused by Suboxone. This time frame is critical for anyone seeking to pursue legal action.

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Get Your Free Consultation From Our Tennessee Suboxone Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is dedicated to supporting you during difficult times. If you or a loved one has experienced complications from medications like Suboxone, contact us without delay.

Our team possesses extensive expertise in managing such cases and will assist you throughout the legal process. We will elucidate your rights and evaluate your eligibility to file a Suboxone lawsuit related to these complications.

Take advantage of a free case evaluation, and remember, we only charge fees if we win your case. You can rely on our unwavering commitment to your case, treating it with the same care as if you were part of our family. Contact us today for a thorough review of your concerns.

Reference:

1. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/suboxone
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325827
3. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-dental-problems-buprenorphine-medicines-dissolved-mouth-treat-opioid-use-disorder